The 7 Most Timeless, Ageless Dress Styles Every Woman Should Own

The heat wave sweeping the country has us dreaming of the ocean breeze in somewhere tropical while we're actually crammed into someone's armpit during our morning commutes. This said, we've had to do a serious revamp to avoid melting in the heat. A go-to dress makes for the perfect frock to wear to the market and bar on a Saturday and can make an easy transition to the office when paired with the right accessories.

With so many gorgeous dresses out there, it's important to familiarize yourself with the styles that will stand the test of time and find out which ones are best suited to your personal style and taste. And while perfect for this sweltering heat, a dress makes the perfect wardrobe companion all year round. Just pair with opaque tights, chic socks, or knee-high boots for a look that will walk you comfortably through fall and even into winter.

Have a scroll through the dress styles we're certain will be in fashion for decades to come and shop the pieces that suit your taste the most.

Style Notes: The Instagram set loves a wrap dress, and so do we. Ultra-flattering for all body types, wrap dresses have taken over our feeds and are looking like the must-have style for 2018. This being said, they've been around for over 40 years, first made iconic by none other than Diane von Furstenberg in 1974. The wrapping function accentuates the waist and looks great on a curvy figure, but it can also add definition to those with a more athletic body. For a weekend stroll or evening out, try a mini wrap dress. The shorter hem is also extremely flattering on more petite frames. If you're looking for something easily transitioned from weekend to work, there's a whole fleet of long-sleeved, below-the-knee wrap dresses for you—we particularly love the offering Reformation has.

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Style Notes: A nod to the '90s, the slip dress will forever evoke images of Kate Moss, Courtney Love, and Carrie Bradshaw in my mind. If you're looking for a sleek, minimalistic approach to dressing, the slip dress is perfect for you. If you have a smaller bust, layer a lace triangle bra underneath for added texture. For anyone with a larger bust, a slip dress with a defined bust area or thicker straps will provide more support. Not 100% sold on the underwear-as-outerwear trend? Layer a T-shirt underneath in the summer or a turtleneck in winter, and you'll find yourself with a whole new opportunity to mix textures, patterns, and colors.

Style Notes: The shirtdress is a stylish answer to summer workwear, and it's perfectly paired with pointed-toe mules in the boardroom or sneakers for the weekend. Ideal for the warmer summer months, a shirtdress can make the perfect beach cover-up too. If you have a shorter frame or fuller figure, look for a shirtdress with belting to give your silhouette some definition. However, if you want to be more directional, don't be afraid to exaggerate the shape of your shirtdress and go for something oversize with extra-long sleeves and/or statement cuffs.

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Style Notes: We've long been told that a little black dress is something everyone should own. An LBD is perfect for those times when you don't feel like worrying about which accessories will match your look, often eliminating the degree of "getting ready" you'll ever need to do. This truly is a trend for everyone, and it looks insanely chic paired with bold accessories, as done by Ellie above. Opt for sculptural gold jewelry and bright shoes and you'll instantly steal the show.

Style Notes: The halter dress oozes Hollywood glamour, and we can't help but think of Marilyn Monroe's iconic white dress in The Seven Year Itch. Or Meghan Markle's second wedding dress, for that matter. A halter dress is the perfect weekend throw-on dress, and it looks great paired with casual accessories like sneakers and a basket bag. If you're looking to channel your inner Marilyn, opt for a halter-neck dress made from silk with a fuller skirt and defined bust area and pair with glam accessories.

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Style Notes: If you're after the perfect throw-on dress with bohemian vibes, look no further than the maxi. A billowing one like the beauty sported by Annabel above is perfect for work during the hot summer months, and it'll look easy breezy paired with simple leather sandals or flats. If you're looking for an evening dress with added elegance, the long lines of a maxi will have you black tie–ready with ease. For those of us who love the trend but are worried about tripping over hems or being drowned in a sea of silk, look for something in the petite section or take a trip to your local tailor. You want a maxi to be full in length but be no longer than just above your ankles. Shop more of the best maxi dresses here.